From the neon-colored wigs of “Hairspray” to Morticia’s iconic dress in “The Addams Family,” Perry’s theater has never let its audience down when it comes to costumes.

Behind these iconic threads is another star who shines not on stage, but behind the curtains. Diane Craig has been Perry’s theater costume designer since the school first opened in 2007, producing some of the most memorable costumes in high school theater. Yet, as even the greatest productions have to come to a close, so must this era of one of Perry’s greatest. For seven fantastic years, Craig has made an impression on the drama department’s way of life, impacting students’ and teachers’ lives alike.

Film study teacher Jim Fountain has been working side by side with Craig for over 20 years, and just like any friendship, seeing one move on is a bittersweet moment.

“I’m happy for her because she’s going to be closer to family, and that’s a good choice for her,” Fountain states, “It’s sad for me because not only am I losing a costumer, but a very good friend.”

Craig’s move to Washington has also sparked a small hiccup in theater production: without a costumer, there is no show. And with Perry’s productions of “The Wizard of Oz” and “Almost, Maine” coming up, that is certainly not an option. To lighten the load, Junior Kiera Jennings, currently head of makeup in the theater’s productions, has stepped up to try and fulfill this task.

“Basically, I’m going to be in charge of costumes and makeup,” Jennings says, adding, “It’s a lot to live up to.” According to Shawna Marquis, theater teacher and play director, Craig has designed, constructed, and assembled each and every costume in Perry’s plays, even taking home and washing the cast’s attire before the night of the show.

With all of the little things Craig did to take care of the costumes and cast members, Marquis reminisces on their time together with tears in her eyes.

“We’ll just really miss her, not only the program, but us,” Marquis states, referring to the theater cast and crew as one big family. Fountain also refers to everyone in theater fondly, shining a big spotlight on the way Craig fit in to the group.

“Students just adore her,” Fountain reflects, “it’s really hard to imagine what we’re going to be like without her.”

While her retirement is bittersweet for those who work with her, Craig is bound to be remembered throughout the rest of this school year and well into the future of Perry’s theater.

“I wish her the best,” Marquis finishes and smiles, “she’s going to start a whole new adventure in her life, and I’m sure she’ll end up doing costuming up there too, I think it’s just a part of her.”